Dundalk Show 2023 open for entries

It is almost the time of year when all roads lead to Bellurgan Park for the annual Dundalk Show. Set in beautiful surroundings with the Cooley Mountains providing a very scenic backdrop, the Dundalk Show Committee says it is working "flat out" in preparation for this year's Show which takes place on Sunday June 11th. 

The mission of the Dundalk Show is, “To be a shop window for what is produced locally, explaining the process from farm to fork, highlighting best agricultural practice and adherence to quality production”.

Shows like Dundalk Show also help to preserve traditions handed down through generations which otherwise could be forgotten. The Show also aims to showcase agricultural practices for all ages, bringing urban and rural life together and with plenty of entertainment and competitions, it is sure to be a fun day out for all the family. Dundalk Show Committee maintain that a cup or rosette presented at Dundalk Show certainly adds value to exhibits.

A major part of the show is its competitions which cover all ages. The Home Industries section caters for children and adults. Children are invited to enter classes in recycling and upcycling, art and crafts, hand writing and baking.

Classes for adults include baking and preserves, crochet, knitting, crafts, woodwork, photography, art, flowers, containers and vegetables.

There are also classes for those with special needs. These classes all take place in the Home Industries marquee. Classes are also available for ICA members including baking and crafts.

For those who love viewing livestock, there are plenty of classes for cattle and sheep. New to the Sheep section this year are classes for Rough Fell with a cup in memory of Martin Mc Ateer and also Swaledale classes.

Horse and Pony lovers and committed riders are well catered for in the Show with many classes to enter. There is also a section for Poultry and Eggs.

Dog lovers can enjoy the Dog Show and there are Best Dressed and Bonny Baby competitions which always create great interest. Some sections contain qualifiers which means a winner from Dundalk Show can go on to an All Ireland Final at another show. 

Trade Stands as always are a very big part of Dundalk Show and this year there are many. Some stand out activities include Agri-Kids with a focus on safety in the countryside through play and fun, Louth Barn Owls, Alone Charity, Louth Bee Keepers, ISPCA and S.A.F.E Castlebellingham.

This year the Dundalk Show committee says its is glad to celebrate “Women in Rural Ireland” with a special marquee on site for this. This will involve a number of speakers on topics such as “Taking the Stress out of How to Dress, Inside Matters (Emotional Wellbeing), What Women Want-Business focus, Women in Agriculture and Food, Smashing the Glass Ceiling-Political focus and a Grand Finale which involves a Make-Over. 

There will be plenty of entertainment as usual and the Home Industries marquee will have demonstrations on Flower Arranging, Cake Decorating and lots more.

For those who enjoy music, the Junior and Senior Ardee Brass Bands will be present as will the Dundalk Ukulele Band. Irish, dancing, a magician and children's entertainment will also be present.

For those who love their country music and dancing, Dundalk Show committee are delighted to announce that the headline act is Johnny Brady who will take to the main stage at 5pm and will perform until 7pm. Don't forget your dancing shoes.

The show committee says it is delighted to welcome Show Queen, Caitlin Shields, and Country Gent Johnny Lynch, members of Louth Macra na Feirme. 

Entries can now be made via the Show website www.dundalkshow.com while further information can be found by emailing [email protected] or by contacting 086-2503113.

Tickets for the Show are on sale online or can be purchased at the gate: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/613400205527. Dundalk Show is now open for business and the Dundalk Show committee says it looks forward to seeing everyone on Sunday June 11th.